The San Francisco Giants and Seattle Mariners could both address key weaknesses with a proposed blockbuster trade.
In his first offseason as president of baseball operations, Buster Posey has had a mixed start, but has made significant moves to improve the Giants’ roster. The team successfully upgraded shortstop by landing Willy Adames, the top free agent at the position, with a seven-year, $182 million contract, the largest in franchise history. Additionally, the Giants signed future Hall of Famer Justin Verlander to a one-year, $15 million deal. While Verlander’s age (42 on Opening Day) and health—after a neck injury last season—are concerns, he remains a valuable asset if he stays healthy.
Despite these moves, the Giants still have several areas to improve, including adding more power to their lineup and bolstering their starting rotation. With limited options left in free agency, San Francisco might look to the trade market for further upgrades.
One potential trade partner is the Seattle Mariners, who have an abundance of pitching and are in need of offensive reinforcements. Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report suggests a major deal where the Giants acquire ace Luis Castillo in exchange for first baseman/outfielder LaMonte Wade Jr., top prospect Marco Luciano, and outfield prospect Dakota Jordan.
Castillo, under contract for three more seasons, would provide a significant boost to the Giants’ rotation alongside Logan Webb, filling the gap left by Blake Snell’s departure to the Dodgers. While this trade might seem like a lot to give up, the Mariners are desperate for offensive help, and Wade, Luciano, and Jordan could help address that need.
Wade, though lacking power, has been a reliable contributor at first base with a combined 4.8 WAR over the past two seasons and a strong on-base percentage of .376. Luciano, once a top prospect, struggled in his MLB debut, but a change of scenery could help him reach his potential. Given his current lack of playing time with the Giants, Luciano might welcome a fresh start. Jordan, a highly athletic outfielder with impressive power, is an intriguing prospect despite some areas for development.
This proposed trade could provide both teams with what they need, making it a win-win scenario if executed.
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